Khalifa University of Science and Technology’s Research & Innovation Centre for Graphene and 2D Materials (RIC2D), the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development’s-  Industrial Development Bureau (DED-IDB), the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (ADQCC), and the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) jointly announced the launch of the Graphene Enhanced Concrete (GEC) Consortium, to facilitate a collaborative approach towards the development of graphene-enhanced concrete.  

 The project charter for the GEC Consortium was signed by representatives of all the stakeholders during a ceremony that took place at Khalifa University. The Consortium will aim to facilitate collaboration among the partners to ensure that Graphene Enhanced Concrete prototyping, research and development efforts are aligned with the related legislations and quality specifications in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.  

His Excellency Homaid AlShimmari, Vice-Chairman, Khalifa University Board of Trustees, said: “We are delighted to strategically partner with our stakeholders for this Graphene Enhanced Concrete Consortium that will be in line with Abu Dhabi’s efforts towards reducing carbon footprint while assisting the construction sector through the use of graphene. RIC2D continues to lead in engaging with stakeholders to achieve solutions that benefit the community, and we believe this collaboration will lead to Abu Dhabi playing an emphatic role in ushering in a new era for the building and construction sector.”   

His Excellency Abdulla Ahmed Alyazeedi, Acting Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council, said: “We commend this joint and distinguished initiative between various government agencies in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to develop graphene-reinforced concrete materials.” 

 “This coordination and joint cooperation among all will have a great impact on enhancing sustainable infrastructure and developing innovative products in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. This initiative confirms the commitment of the Abu Dhabi government to research, development, and innovation in the field of advanced materials, which will contribute to achieving the Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 for Sustainable Development,” he added. 

 “The initiative also highlights the role of the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council and its various sectors in ensuring that these innovative products comply with the highest quality and safety standards in the Emirate,” H.E. explained. 

 “We are proud to contribute to this collaborative project, which will help strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading center of innovation and excellence in the field of advanced materials. We look forward to following up on these joint efforts and achieving tangible results for the benefit of society,” the Secretary General affirmed.  

 Dr. Salem Al Kaabi, Director General of Operations Affairs at the Department of Municipalities and Transport stated: “We always strive to collaborate with various government entities to achieve our shared goals of enhancing services and improving the quality of life in Abu Dhabi. Through this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to adopting the latest innovations and solutions in the construction and building sector to advance infrastructure development and promote sustainable growth in the Emirate.” 

 Through this collaboration, Khalifa University will conduct research and development (R&D) to develop new products and technologies that meet industry standards and regulations. The Department of Economic Development and the Department of Municipalities and Transport, supported by the Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council, will guide and advise to ensure the R&D outputs are approved by relevant authorities and compliant with local regulations. The launch of the GEC Consortium is aligned with Abu Dhabi Government’s initiatives towards reducing carbon footprint and enhancing the economies of construction materials.